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Affordable 4-season clamshell at 130 lbs with side-opening convenience
Last reviewed: March 2026
The Smittybilt Aluminum Side Opening RTT is a 4-season hardshell clamshell rooftop tent with an aluminum shell and nylon liner. It sleeps 3, weighs 130 lbs, includes a 2.5-inch mattress, and sets up in approximately 60 seconds.
At a glance
Why this product
The Smittybilt Side Opening RTT gives you a clamshell format at what is typically the lowest price in its class. Same 130 lb weight, 4-season rating, and nylon liner as their popup model. The side-opening design is useful when rear access is obstructed. Nylon is less breathable than poly-cotton canvas, so expect more condensation in humid conditions. If price is the primary driver and you want a 4-season clamshell, this is likely the cheapest way to get there.
Detailed specs
| Tent Type | Hardshell Clamshell |
| Sleeping Capacity | 3 people |
| Season Rating | 4 Season |
| Setup Time | 60 sec |
| Tent Weight | 130 lbs |
| Garage Clearance OK | Yes |
| Mattress Thickness | 2.5 in |
| Has Annex | No |
| Ladder Included | Yes |
| Gas Strut Assisted | Yes |
| Windows | 2 |
| Doors | 1 |
| Shell Material | Aluminum Shell |
| Fabric Material | Nylon Liner |
| Has Awning | No |
Best prices
| Retailer | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Check price | Check availability | Check Price |
Disclosure: MyCargoRacks.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Disclosure: MyCargoRacks.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Price may vary. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Performance analysis
vs. average in rooftop_tent
Price vs. score for all rooftop_tent
Fitment
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tahoe(5th Gen) | 2021+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Escape(4th Gen) | 2020+ | good |
Alternatives
Most relevant alternatives to Smittybilt Aluminum Side Opening RTT
Crossbars needed |
| Explorer(6th Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pilot(4th Gen) | 2023+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| CR-V(6th Gen) | 2023+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| CR-V(5th Gen) | 2017–2022 | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Fe(5th Gen) | 2024+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Tucson(4th Gen (NX4)) | 2022+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Cherokee(WL) | 2022+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telluride(1st Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Sportage(5th Gen) | 2023+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rogue(3rd Gen (T33)) | 2021+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forester(6th Gen) | 2025+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Forester(5th Gen (SK)) | 2019–2024 | good | Crossbars needed |
| Crosstrek(3rd Gen) | 2024+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Outback(6th Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAV4(6th Gen) | 2025+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| 4Runner(6th Gen) | 2025+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| RAV4(5th Gen (XA50)) | 2019–2024 | good | Crossbars needed |
| Highlander(4th Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| 4Runner(5th Gen (N280)) | 2010–2024 | good | Crossbars needed |
| Corolla Cross(1st Gen) | 2022+ | good | Crossbars needed |
Common questions